Arsenal vs Manchester United : Match Preview

Arsenal will be without the services of the suspended Olivier Giroud so Theo Walcott and Lukas Podolski will be vying for the lone striker berth as league champions, Manchester United, visit the Emirates on Sunday.

Arsene Wenger will also be without long term absentee, Abou Diaby so will likely have to make a decision on whether Jack Wilshere or on form Tomas Rosicky starts in the third midfield slot alongside Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey.

Manchester United could possibly make a number of changes to their side from the team that beat Aston Villa on Monday night, Ferguson suggesting that Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez may receive the opportunity for game time. Jonny Evans picked up a knock in Mondays victory so Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic will take up their positions in the centre of the defence.

Wenger has stated that Arsenal will maintain the tradition of offering up a guard of honour to a Manchester United side containing former striker Robin Van Persie, a move that will leave a bitter taste in the mouths of Gunners fans. Whilst United's season is effectively over, Arsenal have much to play for and will be keen to pick up another vital three points in the race for a top four finish.

"We have no room to drop points. This is another vital game for us to get the points we want." Wenger had to say pre-match. "We are on a very strong run. We need total desire, commitment and focus to achieve what we want."